Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online, but the process and what happens next depends on the account type

Chase lets you open checking and savings accounts entirely online through their website or mobile app. You do not need to visit a branch to start the account, fund it, or begin using it. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if your information is ready.

However, some account types—particularly business accounts, certain investment accounts, and accounts that require a credit decision—still require a phone call or branch visit. And if you want to deposit cash or get a debit card faster than mail delivery, you will need a branch nearby.

The real question is not whether you can open online, but whether the account you want is available online, and whether the next steps (funding, card arrival, verification) work for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online through their website or app in about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • You will need a Social Security number, valid ID, current address, and an initial deposit amount (varies by account type) to open online.
  • Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you cannot pick it up at a branch or get it when ready.
  • Business accounts, some investment products, and accounts requiring a credit decision still require a phone call or in-person visit.
  • If you need to deposit cash when ready or verify your identity in person, you will need access to a Chase branch.

What you need to open a Chase account online

Before you start, gather these documents and information: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, your current address, and your phone number. Chase will verify your identity against these details.

You also need an initial deposit. The amount varies by account type—some checking accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $25 or $100. You can fund the account from another bank account you own using an electronic transfer, or in some cases by linking a debit card.

Have your other bank's routing number and account number ready if you are transferring money in. The transfer usually takes one to three business days to show up in your new Chase account.

The actual steps to open online

Go to chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Account." You will be asked to choose your account type (checking, savings, or both), then enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number.

Chase will run a soft credit check and verify your identity against public records. This usually takes a few minutes. If you pass, you will be asked to choose a username and password, set up security questions, and review the account terms.

Next, you fund the account. Link your existing bank account and authorize a transfer, or provide a debit card number. Once the transfer is initiated, your Chase account is open and usable when ready—you can set up bill pay, mobile deposits, and transfers right away, even though the money is still in transit.

When you will get your debit card and what to do while you wait

Chase mails your debit card to the address you provided during signup. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. There is no option to pick it up at a branch or to receive it faster through expedited shipping.

While you wait, you can use your account fully through the app or website: transfer money between accounts, pay bills, set up direct deposit, and deposit checks by taking a photo with the mobile app. You cannot withdraw cash or make in-person purchases until the card arrives.

If you need cash when ready, you can visit a Chase branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID and the account number, even without the card.

Accounts that require a phone call or branch visit

Chase business checking and savings accounts cannot be opened online. You will need to call Chase business banking at the number on their website or visit a branch with your business license, EIN, and personal ID.

Some investment accounts, money market accounts, and credit products (like credit cards or lines of credit) also require a phone conversation or in-person meeting, because Chase needs to assess your creditworthiness or discuss features that are not straightforward to present online.

If you are unsure whether your account type is available online, start the online process—Chase will tell you within the first few screens if you need to switch to phone or branch.

What happens if Chase cannot verify your identity online

If the soft credit check or identity verification fails, Chase will ask you to visit a branch in person or call their verification team. This usually happens if your address does not match public records, your Social Security number does not verify, or there is a flag in their fraud system.

Bring your ID and proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) to the branch. The verification usually takes a few minutes, and your account will be approved on the spot.

If you cannot visit a branch, call the number Chase provides and a representative can walk you through additional verification steps over the phone.

Funding your account after it is open

Once your account is open, you can add money in several ways: electronic transfer from another bank (1 to 3 business days), mobile check deposit using the app (1 to 2 business days), direct deposit from your employer, or cash deposit at a Chase ATM or branch.

The fastest way to have money available is a transfer from another bank account you control—Chase usually makes it available within one business day, even though the official window is up to three days.

If you need cash deposited when ready and do not have another bank account to transfer from, you will need to visit a Chase branch or ATM in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead, but you will likely need to visit a branch to verify it in person.

What if I do not have a valid ID?

You cannot open an account online without a government-issued ID. You will need to visit a branch with whatever ID you have and speak to a banker about alternative verification methods. Some branches may be able to work with you, but it is not may provide.

Can I open a joint account online?

Yes. During the online process, you can add a joint owner. Both people will need to provide their information and verify their identity. Both owners must be present if you later need to make changes in person at a branch.

What if my debit card gets lost or stolen before it arrives?

Contact Chase when ready through the app or by calling the number on your account statement. They will cancel the card in the mail and reissue a new one. You can also request a rush card delivery, though this may have a fee.

Can I use my new Chase account before the debit card arrives?

Yes. You can transfer money, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and set up direct deposit when ready. You just cannot withdraw cash or swipe the card in stores until it arrives.